Titchfield Festival Theatre prosecuted over Great Barn weddings

Titchfield Festival Theatre Limited admitted nine counts of failing to comply with a breach of condition notice at Portsmouth Magistrates' Court.

The charges come after an investigation by Fareham Borough Council found the company had exceeded the number of wedding events it was permitted to host in a calendar year at The Great Barn, Titchfield.

A breach of condition notice was issued but the council says this was ignored. 

READ MORE: Southampton man fined for parking in neighbour's space

Planning permission for the site states that only 14 wedding events are allowed to take place each year. 

But the council says the actual number exceeded this "by some margin" in 2022. 

The company pleaded guilty to the charges on September 7 and the case was adjourned until April 5, 2024. 

It admitted nine charges relating to weddings on July 16, 21 and 30, August 18, September 10 and 17, October 1 and 8, and November 5.

Cllr Nick Walker, Chairman of the Council’s Planning Committee, said: "I am pleased with the outcome of this court case. 

"Planning conditions are put in place for good reason and the council will pursue those who do not comply with them."

READ MORE: Southampton fraudster 'wiped out savings' of elderly neighbour

The Great Barn is a Grade I listed building and dates back to the early 15th century. 

Planning permission was previously granted by the council for the use of the barn for various purposes.

The condition limiting the number of weddings was imposed to protect the living conditions of nearby homeowners.

A spokesperson for the council said: "The courts will now also consider confiscation of any profits Titchfield Festival Theatre Limited have benefitted from as a result of the unauthorised weddings, (something that is provided for under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002). "

Titchfield Festival Theatre Limited has been approached for comment.

The company will be sentenced at Portsmouth Crown Court at a later date.